St Peter & St Paul's, Lavenham, Suffolk
1 / 10

St Peter-in-Ely Church

4.7
·13 reviews·, United Kingdom

A beautiful Victorian parish church in Ely, featuring a stunning rood screen, unique RAF stained glass, and intriguing historical artifacts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
St Peter & St Paul's, Lavenham, Suffolk

St Peter-in-Ely Church

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful Victorian parish church in Ely, featuring a stunning rood screen, unique RAF stained glass, and intriguing historical artifacts.

4.7
(13 reviews)

"A gem of a country parish church, well worth spending time gawping at its wonders."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ask about opening times

Access can vary; staff are often happy to open up for visitors. :pray:

Look for unique details

Don't miss the RAF windows and the scrubbed war memorial name. :mag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sir Ninian Comper Rood Screen

Sir Ninian Comper Rood Screen

Altar area

A stunning and early masterpiece by Sir Ninian Comper, this rood screen is a must-see for its intricate detail and depiction of the Crucifixion.

RAF Stained Glass Windows

RAF Stained Glass Windows

Interior

These poignant windows, transferred from a former RAF hospital, add a unique historical and artistic dimension to the church's interior.

The Mysterious War Memorial

The Mysterious War Memorial

Interior

A war memorial with a name deliberately scrubbed out tells a remarkable story of a soldier presumed dead who later returned.

Victorian Architecture & Murals

Victorian Architecture & Murals

Interior

Admire the beautiful Victorian design, including the font with its eight-sided dias and the captivating 'Days of Creation' murals.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check opening times before you go, as access can depend on services or events. Some visitors found the church opened specifically for them by kind staff, highlighting the need for flexibility. Consider weekdays for a quieter experience.

Discovering Hidden Stories

Look out for unique features like the RAF stained glass windows and the intriguing war memorial with a scrubbed-out name. These details offer fascinating glimpses into local history and personal stories.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During flower festivals
Why
Vibrant seasonal displays
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ask about opening times

Access can vary; staff are often happy to open up for visitors. :pray:

Look for unique details

Don't miss the RAF windows and the scrubbed war memorial name. :mag:

Appreciate Victorian design

The church boasts beautiful Victorian architecture and murals. :art:

Check for events

Flower festivals and harvest celebrations add extra charm. :bouquet:

Tips

from all over the internet

Ask about opening times

Access can vary; staff are often happy to open up for visitors. :pray:

Look for unique details

Don't miss the RAF windows and the scrubbed war memorial name. :mag:

Appreciate Victorian design

The church boasts beautiful Victorian architecture and murals. :art:

Check for events

Flower festivals and harvest celebrations add extra charm. :bouquet:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(13 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St Peter-in-Ely Church as a hidden gem, highlighting its stunning Victorian architecture and unique historical artifacts like the RAF stained glass and the intriguing war memorial. The magnificent Sir Ninian Comper rood screen is a particular standout. While access can sometimes depend on services, the warmth of the staff and the richness of the church's stories make it a highly recommended visit for those exploring Ely.

"I visited on a Saturday morning and my visit was enabled by teh incumbent rev Ann Williamson who took time out of her morning to open the church for me and show me around.

I had taken an earlier train from London so had time look around the outside and was able to go in earlier as a nice lady who was doing the flowers let me in. Both where warm and welcoming and if typical of the faith community here you would be very welcomed by them.

Highlights for me where the RAF stain glass windows which where transferred when a local RAF hospital was closing. The War Memorial which has a name chipped out and smoothed over. Why? The mystery solved by the fact that the presumed dead soldier came back to Ely a few years later hale and hearty and well.

As a catholic I am always intrigued to depictions of catholic English reformation martyrs in Anglican churches and St Peters has two fine statutes of Sts John Fisher (Cardinal Bishop of Rochester) and Thomas More (Lord Chancellor), both gifted c1930s.

On entry to the Church, the Font is in the right place on an eight sided dias. Murals of the Days of Creation are behind the font.

Looking to the Altar one is seized by the top to bottom Rood Screen not just the depiction of the Crucifixion. By Sir Ninian Comper (a much better depiction of his work than later works I think).

In front of the fine Lady Altar is the Maundy Money given by the late Queen Elizabeth I to a parishioner Nellie Harwell nee Knight at Ely Cathedral in 1987.

If you visit Ely, do try to visit St Peter's its is a gem, but also a fine country parish church."

Christopher J Keeffe

"Wonderful rood screen lovely flower festival and harvest celebration."

Ronald Greydanus

"If you like your rood screen to be Puginesque you can do no better than that in St Peter's Ely. It's Sir Ninian Comper's finest, and earliest, and is well worth spendng time gawping at. And check out the war memorial, one of its names scrubbed out when the bloke turned up for its unveiling at its original home in the Market Square. I'm alive, he said. That's embarrassing, they agreed, promptly amending it really badly and then hushing it up by sticking it in that church on Broad Street."

David Learner

What People Like

Magnificent rood screen
Unique historical artifacts
Beautiful Victorian design

What People Dislike

Variable opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Peter-in-Ely Church is located on Broad Street in Ely. If arriving by train, it's a walk from Ely station. Parking may be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations.

Yes, Ely is well-served by train services. From the station, you can walk or take a local bus service towards the town center where the church is situated.

The church is within walking distance of Ely's main attractions and city center. A pleasant stroll will lead you to Broad Street.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to St Peter-in-Ely Church is typically free, though donations are gratefully accepted to help with its upkeep. It's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them for the most current information on visiting hours and any potential entry fees for special events.

Opening hours can vary as the church is a working parish church. It may be closed during services or for private events. Visitors have reported that staff are often willing to open the church for those who inquire, so contacting them in advance is recommended.

Weekends may have services or events that affect public access. While some visitors have had positive experiences visiting on a Saturday morning, it's best to confirm availability beforehand.

Generally, there is no admission fee. However, donations are highly encouraged to support the maintenance and preservation of this historic church.

The most reliable way is to contact the church directly via phone or email, or to check their official website for any announcements regarding opening times or closures.

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the magnificent Sir Ninian Comper rood screen, the unique RAF stained glass windows, a fascinating war memorial with a scrubbed name, and beautiful Victorian murals behind the font.

Yes, visitors can see the Maundy Money given by Queen Elizabeth I to a parishioner, as well as depictions of Catholic martyrs like Sts John Fisher and Thomas More.

The church's beautiful architecture, stained glass, and rood screen offer excellent photographic opportunities. Be mindful of any restrictions or etiquette regarding photography during services.

The war memorial is notable for having one name deliberately scrubbed out, telling the story of a soldier who returned after being presumed dead, leading to an embarrassing amendment.

While formal guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, visitors have mentioned being shown around by welcoming staff, so it's worth inquiring upon arrival.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ely city center offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants within walking distance of the church, providing options for lunch or refreshments.

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main church area to preserve the sanctity and cleanliness of the building. Check for any specific guidelines posted at the entrance.

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the intricate details of the Sir Ninian Comper rood screen, the vibrant RAF stained glass windows, and the 'Days of Creation' murals. The font area is also a good subject.

While generally permitted, it's courteous to avoid flash photography, especially during services or if it might disturb other visitors. Always be respectful of the sacred nature of the space.

The interior lighting can be atmospheric, with natural light filtering through stained glass. Consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod if permitted for longer exposures.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and art, St Peter-in-Ely Church is a treasure trove. The Sir Ninian Comper rood screen is a masterpiece of ecclesiastical design, offering a deep dive into Gothic Revival artistry. Don't miss the RAF stained glass windows, a unique historical link to the area's wartime past, and the intriguing war memorial with its scrubbed name, a story in itself. The church also houses statues of Catholic martyrs and Maundy Money, providing further layers of historical interest. Reddit

Local Explorers & Day-Trippers

St Peter-in-Ely Church is an excellent addition to a day trip in Ely, offering a glimpse into a beautiful country parish church with significant artistic and historical merit. It's a chance to discover a local gem that might be overlooked by larger tourist itineraries. The welcoming atmosphere and the unique stories embedded in its features, like the war memorial, make for a memorable and engaging visit. It provides a peaceful respite and a chance to appreciate local heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Sir Ninian Comper

St Peter-in-Ely Church is home to a remarkable example of Sir Ninian Comper's work: his early and arguably finest rood screen. Comper was a prominent English architect and designer known for his significant contributions to church architecture in the Arts and Crafts and Gothic Revival styles. His designs often blended traditional craftsmanship with a distinctive aesthetic. The rood screen at St Peter's is celebrated for its detailed depiction of the Crucifixion and is considered a highlight for those who appreciate ecclesiastical art and design. Visitors often spend considerable time admiring its craftsmanship and the spiritual narrative it conveys. Reddit

Beyond the rood screen, Comper's influence can be seen in other elements, though the screen itself is the star. His work is characterized by a deep understanding of liturgical needs and a commitment to creating beautiful, functional spaces for worship. The screen at St Peter's is a testament to his skill and vision, making it a key reason for many to visit this parish church. It stands as a significant piece of religious art within the broader context of English church architecture.

Uncovering Local History Through Artifacts

St Peter-in-Ely Church holds several artifacts that tell compelling local stories. The RAF stained glass windows are a poignant reminder of the area's connection to the Royal Air Force, having been transferred from a local RAF hospital when it closed. These windows add a unique layer of history and remembrance to the church's interior. Reddit

Another intriguing historical element is the war memorial. Unlike typical memorials, one name has been deliberately chipped out and smoothed over. This unusual feature relates to a soldier who was presumed dead but later returned, leading to an awkward amendment of the memorial. The story behind this alteration adds a human and somewhat quirky dimension to the church's historical narrative. Additionally, the presence of Maundy Money given by Queen Elizabeth I to a parishioner, Nellie Harwell, offers a tangible link to royal history and local recipients of such honors. The church also features statues of Catholic martyrs Sts John Fisher and Thomas More, gifted in the 1930s, reflecting historical religious shifts and their commemoration. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2